The right side offers a stronger overall experience: dramatic mountain scenery on departure near Madrid, a possible glimpse of the Pyrenees foothills and Bordeaux region during cruise, and a rare distant view of London on approach into Luton.
Flown MAD to LTN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Madrid to London is 801 miles (1,289 km), a flight of about 2 hours 35 minutes.
Route crosses the Bay of Biscay coastal region near Bordeaux, then the rolling farmland of central France before reaching the English Channel near Normandy.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MAD
RIGHTDeparting Barajas to the north, the climb-out puts the Sierra de Guadarrama's granite peaks directly ahead and to the right, a dramatic contrast to the flat Meseta plain visible on the left.
Landing at LTN
RIGHTOn the descent into Luton, the approach path from the south passes east of central London, giving right-side passengers a distant but recognizable view of the city's skyline and the Thames before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Barajas (MAD) to Luton (LTN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Madrid to London. The right side offers a stronger overall experience: dramatic mountain scenery on departure near Madrid, a possible glimpse of the Pyrenees foothills and Bordeaux region during cruise, and a rare distant view of London on approach into Luton.
What can I see during takeoff from Barajas in Madrid?
During takeoff from Barajas (MAD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing Barajas to the north, the climb-out puts the Sierra de Guadarrama's granite peaks directly ahead and to the right, a dramatic contrast to the flat Meseta plain visible on the left. Notable sights include: Sierra de Guadarrama, Madrid's northern suburbs, Jarama river valley.
What can I see when landing at Luton in London?
When landing at Luton (LTN), sit on the Right side for the best views. On the descent into Luton, the approach path from the south passes east of central London, giving right-side passengers a distant but recognizable view of the city's skyline and the Thames before touchdown. Notable sights include: London skyline (The Shard, Canary Wharf), Thames river bends, Chiltern Hills.
How long is the flight from Madrid to London?
The flight from Barajas (MAD) to Luton (LTN) takes about 2 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 801 miles (1,289 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Madrid to London flight path pass over?
Route crosses the Bay of Biscay coastal region near Bordeaux, then the rolling farmland of central France before reaching the English Channel near Normandy.